The County Has a Budget Hearing Too!

Latah County Commissioners approved the FY2026 annual budget with a two-to-one vote during a public hearing that attracted significant community interest. The meeting featured ACLU representative Amy Dundon, who discussed public defense legislation and the challenges of communication between state lawmakers and local officials. County clerk Julie Fry detailed the budget process, noting that a $14. 5 million broadband infrastructure grant significantly inflated the budget's appearance. Without this grant, the budget totals around $28 million, consistent with previous years.

The county faces rising operational costs due to inflation and personnel expenses, alongside issues tied to the upcoming jail shutdown. Fry emphasized the county's limited flexibility in managing finances under current state policies. This budget approval reflects ongoing challenges in local governance amid broader economic pressures. The public's turnout signals heightened engagement in local affairs and budgetary decisions.